At 3734m, this is the world’s highest polo field; set in a magnificent landscape of rolling pastures, crystalline azure lakes & Hindu-Raj mountains, it is just the setting for the clash of the local polo titans, Chitral and Gilgit. This contest is considered the most challenging polo tournament in the world – with fraying tempers and passions running high, the strain of the high altitude and the ferocity of the game create a drama in which horses die and players invariably suffer grievous injuries. Yet despite the hazards, the polo tradition continues unabated.

Historically, the game goes back many centuries when the local Mehtars, Mirs, and Rajas were patrons of polo, and it was played not only for pleasure but also for celebratory and commemorative occasions. The Mehtar of Chitral would send a message to his relatives, the Rajas of Ghizar, Yasin, and Ishkuman, and word would travel far down the valleys to Punial Gilgit and Chilas, where the challenge would be taken up. But despite being dubbed ‘the game of kings,’ in Gilgit-Baltistan, it is not an elitist sport, often played in the village square on sorry nags or even on bicycles. ” It is the local obsession along with music & dancing on Shandur. In recent years, the event has become a legend – the dramatic landscape, the local color, and the presence of international celebrities. Still, above all, the passion with which the age-old rivals play the game makes the Shandur Polo Festival an unforgettable occasion. A sizeable tented village and bazaar is set up with thousands of people camping out.

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION Islamabad International Airport
DEPARTURE TIME Please arrive at least 2 hours before the flight.

expenses of a personal nature
Extra expenses due to landslides\road blocks
Additional costs due to acts of nature, political reasons, etc.
Any item not mentioned above.
For any query about the plan, please get in touch with the contact below.

info@sunriseadventure.com.pk

1

Day 1:

[Departure”Arrival Islamabad Upon Arrival transfer to the Hotel. Afternoon twin city tour. ]
2

Day 2

Fly to Gilgit.
3

Day 3

Sightseeing of Gilgit.
4

Day 4

Gilgit-Phander Jeep to Phander Lake.
5

Day 5

Phander-Shandur Jeep to Shandur Pass.
6

Day 6-9

Shandur participated in the thrilling polo games, dancing and singing festival.
7

Day 10-11

Chitral-Gilgit Back to Gilgit.
8

Day 12

Gilgit-Islamabad.
4

Day 7: Return